The rotating BIPOC artist gallery at our West 7th store continues this quarter with a new local artist, Juan T. Parker. You can purchase Juan’s original pieces or prints at the register now through July 8, with 100% of the proceeds going directly to the artist.
“My appreciation and interest in art came at the age of four when I began to use color crayons, pencils and finger paints. As I got older, I began to draw with pen and ink, oil pastels, colored pencils and pastel chalk, and paint with acrylic paints.
I attended Hennepin Junior College and then transferred to Hennepin Technical School, earning an associate degree in Commercial Art and Media Production. I have been commissioned to do several murals and art pieces; participated in art shows; and illustrated several children’s books. I also teach various drawing and art classes for young people and adults through Saint Paul community education.
Art has gotten me through being bullied as a child; the difficult teenage years; and having congestive heart failure and cancer as an adult. On Christmas Day 2015, I received the greatest gift of all — a heart transplant. Some days are better than others, but with this second chance, I want my art to inspire and make a difference in this world.”
Support Juan’s work by shopping at our West 7th store and selecting your favorite prints. If your wall spaces are currently full, consider gifting these unique pieces of art to friends or family. See more of his artwork on Instagram: @juantparker.
Are you interested in being a future featured artist?
We’d love to hear from you! We’re accepting applications on a rolling basis for the 2022 gallery.